A Ukrainian MiG 29 fighter jet has successfully destroyed the Oleshky Bridge in Kherson region using a French donated AASM Hammer guided bomb. Footage of the strike shows a direct and precise hit that toppled a section of the bridge, rendering it unusable for Russian forces. The aftermath images confirm the damage, though the gap is not extensive, meaning Russia could potentially deploy bridging equipment to restore the crossing.
The bridge had remained intact despite heavy fighting in the region. Ukraine previously allowed it to stand as it provided a route for its own amphibious operations in 2023 and 2024. It was also a strategic point that enabled Ukrainian drone operators to target Russian military convoys crossing towards the Antonivsky Bridge. However, Russian forces also relied on the bridge for counter operations, making it valuable to both sides until now.
The decision to strike the bridge comes amid reports that Russia has been preparing for a possible river crossing in the area. By destroying the structure, Ukraine has made logistics and military movements significantly more difficult for the Kremlin’s forces. The strike is part of a broader strategy to disrupt Russian supply lines and limit their ability to launch new offensives across the Dnipro River.
The effectiveness of the AASM Hammer bomb highlights Ukraine’s growing precision strike capabilities. However, the limited range of Ukrainian aircraft means larger targets, such as the Crimean Bridge, remain out of reach without a high risk of interception by Russian air defences. Despite these challenges, Ukraine continues to find new ways to weaken Russian military infrastructure and disrupt enemy operations.
